Preservationists rallied Tuesday in a bid to save a building with history dating back to the 19th century.

They are urging the city to step in before the Duffield Houses get demolished in favor of a new apartment building. Activists say that would erase the building's distinction as a former haven for abolitionists.

With the backing of a widely circulated petition, activists brought their case straight to the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The agency says the request to evaluate the building as a landmark is still under review.

Developers have taken the initial steps to demolish the current structure and build the new apartment, but the Department of Buildings says demolition has not been scheduled and permits have not been issued for work to begin. News 12 is told the application at this point is still incomplete.

But that comes as little comfort to the dedicated group of preservationists, who aren't letting the Duffield Houses go without a fight.